Scientific Name: Juglans regia (European Walnut), Juglans nigra (Black Walnut)
Origin: Found in North America and Europe, with Black Walnut primarily growing in the United States and European Walnut found across Europe and parts of Asia.
CITES Status: Not currently listed under CITES regulations.
Use in Guitar Making
Walnut is used for acoustic guitar backs and sides, electric guitar bodies, and sometimes necks. It is valued for its balanced properties, easy workability, and distinctive grain patterns. Some luthiers also use it for fingerboards as an alternative to rosewood.
Tonal Properties
Walnut offers a balanced tonal profile, sitting between mahogany and rosewood. It provides a warm midrange with a clear top end and a slightly compressed low end. Over time, it tends to open up, developing greater resonance.
Hardness and Workability
Janka Hardness Rating: 1,010 lbf (4,500 N) for Black Walnut; 1,220 lbf (5,400 N) for European Walnut
Walnut is a medium-density hardwood that is easy to work with, gluing and finishing well. It has good stability and is less prone to warping compared to other hardwoods.
Grain Structure and Porosity
Walnut typically has a straight grain, though figured varieties can exhibit curl or burl patterns. It has a medium texture with a semi-open grain structure, often requiring minimal grain filling for a smooth finish.
Sustainability and Ethical Considerations
Walnut is widely available and sustainably harvested, making it an eco-friendly alternative to more endangered tonewoods. North American Black Walnut, in particular, is commonly sourced from managed forests, ensuring long-term availability.
Walnut continues to gain popularity in guitar making due to its balanced tonal properties, aesthetic appeal, and sustainable sourcing. Its versatility makes it a strong choice for both acoustic and electric instruments.
